Regional commanders have said all ceasefire and non-ceasefire groups must abide by the new constitution approved by Burma's ruling junta in May. This was stated at a meeting with members of the United Wa State Army and Shan State Army, according to SHAN sources.

On July 5, the new Commander of Eastern Region Command and Chairman of Shan State South Peace and Development Council, Maj-Gen Ya Pyae who succeeded Maj-Gen Thaung Aye, called on Merng Zeun, former Shan State Army 758th Brigade commander who surrendered on 17 July 2006, at Namzarng and said that all ceasefire groups and the rebel groups must change their policies in accordance with the new constitution while expressing his thanks.

"All armed groups must remain under the command of the Tatmadaw (Armed Forces) according to the new constitution which most people supported on the May 10 referendum and all must adjust themselves during the two years before the 2010 election," said the commander.

"You are so lucky that you surrendered your arms to us earlier, if not you too will be in the list of the discussion."

Likewise, last June, Maj-Gen Min Aung Hlaing, the outgoing Commander of Kengtung-based Triangle Region Command and the new Maj-Gen Kyaw Phyo also called a meeting with 20 representatives from the United Wa State Army (UWSA) at its command post before he handed over office to the new commander.

"In the next two years, there will be an election. You must all tell your top officials that they must prepare to abide by the new constitution," Maj-Gen Min Aung Hlaing said during the meeting.

"It is as good as saying we must surrender or retire. Does it mean they're ready to fight us if we refuse to?" asked the SSA source.

On the other hand, the Burmese Army has reportedly stationed armoured vehicles and troops in Loi Lang, opposite Mae Ai district, Chiangmai's province. Unconfirmed report also say it will set up an FM 88 radio station in the area that will have many ethnic languages like Shan, Akha,  Lahu and others, according to a Shan State Army source based in Loi Kaw Wan, opposite Chiangrai.